It was 1904 and the noted North Carolina wine maker, Paul Garrett, who entered into the wine taste contest in the Louisiana Purchase Exposition, had just won the coveted sparkling wine prize for his "Paul Garrett's Special Dry Champagne". This new found recognition capitulated Mr. Garrett to national prominence and helped him create the larges wine-making empire of the time in North Carolina which was known as Virginia Dare.

This beautiful sign, on metal, with its outstanding graphics, came from the Virginia area some 15+ years ago, and is a magnificent example of Paul Garrett's most famous "Paul Garrett's Special Dry Champagne". The sign, most likely, was created sometime around the 1904—06 area. It displays the famous "The Storm" scene originally painted by the French Artist, Auguste Cot, which was completed in 1883 and now resides at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art.

The outstanding Paul Garrett metal sign, which has been put on a piece of plywood, by the prior owner, measures a large 39-1/2" tall X 29-5/8" wide. As you can see from my photos, the colors, the graphics, and the presentation are some of the nicest ever made. The lower right corner of the sign reads "Compliments of Virginia Dare" in script, while the top left corner of the sign reads "PAUL GARRETT Special Dry CHAMPAGNE A VINTAGE OF UNUSUAL QUALITY"

Though in average to good condition, the sign does have some issues that should be noted. In the upper right hand corner a small piece of the sign [2-1/4" X 2-1/4"] is missing. At the very top of the sign are abrasions. At the left hand corner of the sign, it appears that the sign had been torn.....though not completely off of the rest of the sign. Part of the original tear did go through a small portion of the signs advertising wording...and a portion of that has been retouched up some time ago by a previous owner. The sign, as one would expect, does have minor scratches in other areas. [see photos]...and some of the outer edges are a bit rough. Overall, the signs graphics and colors are well intacted. A fancy and ornate frame would make this beautiful piece a wonderful display piece.

A perfect example of this rare sign has been appraised at $10,000.00.

The sign is perfect for an advertising collector or game room and with its large size, outstanding graphics, and incredible colors it will be a worthy addition for your collection.

NOTE: Due to the size of the sign and its rarity, it will be professionally wrapped and shipped through UPS. Buyer will be responsible for all added wrapping, packing, and shipping costs. Seller will assist in a smooth shipping transaction.